Canopy A&D

Head of Engineering

Irvine, CA

Sponsorship not specifiedDetected 26 days ago

CybersecurityProduct ManagementBusiness DevelopmentSupply ChainERPGD&TCAMMechanical DesignAerospace EngineeringLeadershipMentoringOSHA

About the role

From Engine Bay to Payload, we protect vital structures and systems.
Hera Technologies is a premier contract manufacturer specializing in high-precision metallic and non-metallic solutions for the Aerospace, Defense, Space, and Commercial Airline sectors.
Our team is driven by excellence, integrity, and a passion for advancing aerospace technology.

Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing engineering team, driving recruitment, hiring, and onboarding initiatives while managing resource allocation, team schedules, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure operational excellence.
Direct the design, development, and manufacturing of mechanical components and assemblies for Hera's industry-leading thermal protection systems (TPS), including soft goods, composites, and engineered surface finishes.
Partner closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to champion company-wide initiatives and implement scalable manufacturing and assembly processes that guarantee quality, efficiency, and strict compliance with aerospace and defense standards.
Hands on support of existing programs/projects, technical proposals, cost estimations, and statement of work (SOW) generation to support business development and capture new program opportunities in thermal protection systems and critical aerospace structures.
Oversee the creation, maintenance, and enforcement of rigorous process documentation and controls to ensure consistent production outcomes and optimize throughput across the design, prototyping, and manufacturing lifecycles.
Drive high-level root cause analyses to investigate material failures, process anomalies, and manufacturing defects, leading the implementation of permanent corrective actions across both development and production phases.

Proven leadership in directing major engineering projects from concept through production, involving mechanical systems, softgoods, and polymer-based components in the aerospace or defense sectors.
Deep technical expertise in thermal protection systems, composite manufacturing processes, material, and relevant aerospace testing standards, with the ability to provide detailed-level engineering guidance.
Experience supporting business development initiatives, including assisting with technical proposals, cost estimations, and statements of work (SOW).
Expertise leading root cause analyses and implementing corrective actions for complex material failures, process anomalies, and manufacturing defects.
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field

Deep expertise in GD&T principles (per ASME Y14.5) with the ability to review, approve, and establish corporate standards for aerospace-grade engineering drawings.
Demonstrated experience overseeing qualification and certification campaigns for aerospace and defense hardware, including ruggedized systems and TPS components.
PhD. or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, combined with extensive leadership experience in advanced material applications.
Physical Requirements/Work Environments
Ability to work in office, lab, and manufacturing environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust, and temperature variations.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 35 lbs and perform tasks involving standing, walking, bending, and manual assembly.
Visual acuity required for reading technical drawings, inspecting components, and operating precision instruments.
May require use of PPE such as safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection, in accordance with Cal/OSHA safety standards.

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Security Clearance (Secret or higher), or the ability to obtain and maintain one, to oversee controlled defense-related programs and secure facilities

This listing is sourced directly from Canopy A&D's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.